11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling south to Cologne, Heidelberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Munich

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dortmund. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Rheinboulevard is the perfect place to start. This boardwalk is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Dortmund. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Rhine Garden Sculpture. This noteworthy park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Museum Ludwig and Cologne Cathedral. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Old Market, an instagrammable public square in Dortmund.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Cologne, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAVOY Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Reichard. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t miss Schildergasse in Cologne today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Belgisches Viertel, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Cologne.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cologne Zoological Garden.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Kolumba. This eye-catching museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Cologne, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Trechtingshausen, Biebernheim, and Heidelberg, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Sooneck Castle. This curiosity-inducing castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rheinfels Castle, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Kurpfälzisches Museum, one of the most intriguing places to see in Cologne. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Heidelberg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Heidelberg's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Heidelberg tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Heidelberg for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Heidelberg and Mannheim to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Heidelberg, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Philosophers’ Way, an increasingly popular hiking area in the city. Then, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg and soak in the ambiance of this respected historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Heidelberg, and when you are ready for more, go to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the widely recognized Heidelberg Castle. Not far away, you'll also find Luisenpark. This park is a detailed highlight in Heidelberg. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Watertower Of Mannheim, a popular monument in the city.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Heidelberg.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heidelberg. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ristorante Santa Lucia, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider VINCIdue, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essighaus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Destille after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Orange Cafe Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Lenox Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Double Bridge. This frequently visited monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), a must-see public square in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Medieval Crime Museum. This up-and-coming museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to German Christmas Museum, where you can take in standout features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Blade Gate and Town Hall. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Say good night to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Munich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Munich. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, including a park, a food market, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to English Garden. This famous park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Viktualienmarkt, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rothenburg ob der Tauber on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to St. Peter, an often recommended church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Marienplatz.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Munich. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Munich. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Little London / Bar & Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ginkgo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Munich tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Garçon after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Zephyr Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Holy Spirit 1 Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Munich. You’ll stay in Munich for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A visit to Maximilianstraße in Munich is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Munich, including a palace, a park, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Nymphenburg Palace. This well-known palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Olympiapark, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Munich on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Bmw Museum, an interesting museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hofgarten.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Munich's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Gasthaus Isarthor, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Dürnbräu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zum Alten Markt. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Munich.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pusser's stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Ory Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Harry's is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 9 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Munich, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Munich today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is St. Coloman. This history-steeped church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Neuschwanstein Castle and learn what makes this history-steeped castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Marienbrücke. After exploring the sightseeing destination, head to Hohenschwangau Castle. This notable castle is a highlight in Munich.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Munich and your accommodation.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Munich's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Clou, a popular restaurant in Munich. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Munich at Insel Mühle Hotel Restaurant Biergarten, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant Nymphenburger Hof. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Munich tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Fan Arena, Der Rot-weiße Fan Treff, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Boilerman Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Koli's Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

On day 10 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Nuremberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Munich is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a church, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Schöner Brunnen and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg, a stunning church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Nuremberg Castle, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Strobels Dortmund, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Lord. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gaststätte Lütge-eck. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!